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When your thyroid is low, bodily functions can slow down. Here are nine signs you may have hypothyroidism, according to David Borenstein, MD, of Manhattan Integrative Medicine.

1. Elevated Cholesterol
Many patients with hypothyroidism have elevated cholesterol. In many cases, thyroid medication lowers cholesterol to the point that heart medications like statins aren't needed.

3. A Hoarse Voice
Low thyroid causes patients to retain water, which can lead to swelling of the vocal chords. Treating the thyroid reduces swelling and hoarseness.

4. Muscle or Joint Pain
Hypothyroidism often brings on bilateral joint pain, meaning pain in both knees, both elbows, both shoulders, etc. This pain, felt deep in the bone, is not associated with arthritis.

5. Constipation
Lack of thyroid hormone in the gastrointestinal tract slows the motility of the colon, leading to constipation, ranging from mild to severe.

6. Menstrual Problems
Many hypothyroidism patients' menstrual cycles come to a halt for months at a time. Treating the thyroid can bring periods back within two to three months.

7. Increased Sensitivity to Cold
When your thyroid is low, less blood flows to your cells, which causes a feeling of coldness in the body.

8. Dry Skin and Hair
Hypothyroidism can result in dry skin in patches or all over the body. Patients may also lose hair from the scalp and eyebrows. Or, their hair may get thinner overall, with minimal or no hair loss.

9. Depression
Many people who suffer from depression have low thyroid function and are often lacking a particular hormone called T3.

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